Placing overtaking at the forefront of circuit design

Silverstone Circuit

Silverstone

2011

CHALLENGE. Having failed to gain the rights to the F1 Grand Prix in 2008, Silverstone wanted to upgrade their track and facilities to bring the historic circuit back to its rightful position at the heart of UK motor sport and make it a destination again, for drivers and spectators. The masterplan had several phases, including a 360 metre long pit and paddock building and an upgraded circuit with a new section that would enable Silverstone both to get a circuit licence to host MotoGP and bring the excitement of overtaking back to the track.

INNOVATION. Our specialist team used pioneering software, developed in-house, that allowed the simulation of multiple circuit solutions and testing of variable run-offs and profiles. As a result a new section was introduced, the approach to which challenges drivers physically and mentally through an amazing high speed, high ‘g’ right and left hand combination, and offers three exciting new overtaking opportunities. Responding to the track’s speed and tension is the dramatic, continually changing roofline of the pit & paddock building. The hospitality areas offer unbeatable views of the circuit while, on non-race days, the space offers commercial and leisure opportunities that make the venue a year-round one.

IMPACT.With the addition of 678m of asphalt, the new Silverstone circuit can now boast of being one of the longest and quickest on the MotoGP and Grand Prix calendar. The enhanced overtaking opportunities have repositioned the track as the world leader, as evidenced by the return of Formula 1 races to Silverstone, in a 17-year deal that enables the long-term development of the circuit and its facilities.

Together with the new pit & paddock building, it has transformed the venue, using a cohesive visual language, to create a landmark for British and global motorsport. Silverstone is a destination once more.

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